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Criss Out, Singer In For Kiss Tour

Peter Criss, the original drummer of Kiss, has apparently exited the band for the second time in his career. He will be replaced on the hard rock group's ongoing farewell tour with Eric Singer, who sa

Peter Criss, the original drummer of Kiss, has apparently exited the band for the second time in his career. He will be replaced on the hard rock group's ongoing farewell tour with Eric Singer, who sat behind the drums with Kiss from 1991-96.

"Eric has been a member of our family, and his drumming and singing have been the cornerstone of past KISS tours," remaining Kiss members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, and Ace Frehley said in a statement. "We are stoked that we can bring our ultimate spectacle to Kiss fans worldwide." The band made no direct comment on Criss, although unconfirmed rumors say financial issues may have led to his departure.

Singer, who spent part of last year touring with Alice Cooper in support of his "Brutal Planet" album, joined Kiss following the 1991 death of Criss' first replacement, Eric Carr. He also toured in Paul Stanley's solo band in the late 1980s.

Criss last performed with the band Oct. 7 in Charleston, N.C., at the close of Kiss' 129-date North American tour, which ranked as the fourth top grossing tour of 2000, according to Amusement Business. The band's farewell tour will resume for five dates in March in Japan and six Australian dates in April. Further North American dates are rumored, but nothing has been confirmed.